Hair extensions are a popular way to get an instantly thicker, longer head of hair. Many celebrities like Demi Moore, Jennifer Anniston, Madonna, Sandra Bullock, Kylie Minogue, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, and Angelina Jolie have sported hair extensions. The appeal of instantly longer, glamorous hair is enough for many women to volunteer to spend hours in stylist’s chair to get hair extensions. Hair extensions have received mixed reviews from the average woman and some women have even reported that getting hair extensions was one of the worst decisions of their lives. Deciding on hair extensions is a big decision and several factors must be considered before making an appointment to get your own set of hair extensions.

Deciding on Hair ExtensionsDeciding to get hair extensions is a big step for most women. Worries about hair damage, cost and the finished look can cause anxiety and stress during the decision making process. The first step in deciding to get hair extensions is to gather accurate information. An informed consumer is better prepared to make a wise decision. Interview other people who have had hair extensions and talk with several stylists about the process.

Hair Extensions SalonThe difference between gorgeous long hair extensions and a hair nightmare is often the stylist that applies them. Finding a good hair extensions salon with knowledgeable and experienced stylists is crucial. A good hair extension salon should offer to show you pictures of actual customers who have gotten hair extensions from their salon.

You can also ask to speak personally with a customer who has had hair extensions placed by the stylist you are considering. Never get hair extensions from an unknown salon or stylist without doing extensive research first.

Hair Extensions CareProper hair extension care is vital to maintaining a healthy head of natural hair. Many hair stylists recommend that hair extensions should be kept in place for a minimum of eight weeks and should be removed after 12 weeks. While extensions can remain in place for up to one year, keeping them for this length of time can cause damage to your natural hair.

As your hair sheds, the discarded hairs are trapped in the extensions and more and more pressure is put on the hairs that remain attached to the extensions and your scalp. Brushing your hair three times a day can help remove some of the shed hairs and lessen the burden on your natural hair, but as time passes, a fewer number of natural hairs will be supporting the full weight of the extensions. Deciding when to have your hair extensions removed should be discussed with your stylist and is largely dependent on the strength and thickness of your natural hair.

Taking care of hair extensions is more intensive than caring for natural hair care. The roots must be dried thoroughly every time you wash your hair and many types of hair extensions require that you braid your hair before going to bed and sleep on a satin pillowcase to prevent matting.

Types of Hair ExtensionsThere are numerous types of hair extension falling into two basic categories: natural and synthetic. Deciding on a type of hair extensions depends on several factors. Your budget, your lifestyle and the length of time that you intend to keep your hair extensions are all things to consider before deciding on a particular type of hair extensions. These options should be discussed in person with a qualified hair extension expert. Only a professional can help you determine which type of hair extensions is right for you.

Hair weave extensions are a popular form of hair extensions that are applied by weaving the hair extension into the natural hair by braiding. Hair weave extensions can be done so that these braids are visible, like cornrows, or hidden, so that the braids are concealed from all but the closest inspection.

The Advantages of Hair ExtensionsHair extensions allow you to experience a full head of hair without waiting for your natural hair to grow out. This can be useful for special occasions and when recovering from a disastrous haircut.

Hair extensions are not a permanent commitment to a particular hairstyle. You can try out a new hair style before committing to growing your hair long to achieve the look.

Since hair extensions have a limited lifetime, you can style and treat the hair extensions without worrying about permanent damage.

The Disadvantages of Hair ExtensionsHair extensions are costly. The price differs according to your geographic location, the experience of the stylist and the type and number of hair extensions that you choose. Hair extensions can cost anywhere from $250 to $3,000, with additional costs incurring as the weeks go by to maintain your look. This is a large investment for such a short period to enjoy longer hair.

Hair extensions can damage your hair. Just as everything from curling irons to ponytail holders can damage your hair, the bonding agents used during the application of the hair extensions can weaken and thin your hair. The added weight of the extensions can result in a thinning of your natural hair as well. Application by a skilled stylist and proper care of your hair extensions can limit the amount of damage.

Who Should Not Get Hair Extensions?If you have an especially sensitive scalp, suffer from migraine headaches or shed more than 100 hairs a day, you should not get hair extensions. It will require a considerable amount of work to camouflage the fact that you are wearing hair extensions. Even the most skilled stylist cannot entirely cover up the evidence of hair extensions. If this is a problem for your lifestyle or self-image, you should not get hair extensions.

Hair Extension TipsIf you are planning to get hair extensions and would like to have your hair chemically treated, you should have the chemical treatment performed at least 72 hours prior to your hair extension appointment.

Performing a chemical treatment on hair that already has hair extensions in place will result in an uneven appearance since the bonding area will be affected differently than the rest of the hair.

If you know several months in advance that you will be getting hair extensions for a special occasion, consulting your salon can help you prepare your scalp and natural hair for the process. Special treatments can help rid your head of excess shedding hairs and strengthen your natural hair to limit the amount of damage caused by the extensions.

A good hair extension stylist will be able to give you detailed directions about how to care for your extensions. If he or she cannot provide this information up front, go with another stylist or salon.

If you are not satisfied with your hair extensions, say so immediately, before leaving the salon. Many salons will not refund your money or alter the extensions after you leave the building since many people get extensions for a special event like a wedding then hope to have their money refunded once the event is over.

Getting hair extensions is a big decision and should not be made without careful consideration and research. Taking time to interview different stylists is also important since a bad stylist can permanently damage your hair. Careful consideration, patience and getting the facts in advance can reward you with a head of long, beautiful hair without waiting for your natural hair to grow out.

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